The increased availability of moderate cost, good quality, digital audio computer cards and peripherals has enabled trainers and instructional designers to realise the potential of random access audio for computer-based training (CBT) and other multimedia applications. There are, however, few guidelines for instructional designers to follow when incorporating audio into interactive lessons. This paper provides an overview of digital audio in interactive courseware. Hardware and software issues are analyzed, and the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating digital audio are outlined. In addition, areas of future research needs are investigated.